Are you heading to the Lonestar State for a trip? The award-winning city of Carrollton, TX, is rich with history and overflowing with businesses and activities. Whether you’re looking to splurge on shopping, enjoy the great outdoors, or learn about the past, there are plenty of options.
Today, we’re sharing seven of the best things we’ve found to do in Carrollton, TX. Let’s get started!
Where Is Carrollton, TX?
Carrollton, TX, is a suburb of Dallas-Fort Worth. It’s a short 15- to 20- minute drive from both the Dallas Love Field and DFW International airports. If you’re unfamiliar with the geography of Texas, this metropolitan area is in the northeast portion of the Lonestar State.
Keep in mind that Texas is big, so getting to visit other popular cities like Waco (117 miles), Houston (258 miles), and San Antonio (290 miles) will take some time. However, there are plenty of activities in Carrollton, TX, to keep you busy your entire trip!
7 Best Things to Do in Carrollton, TX
Whether you’re looking to spend one day or a few in Carrollton, TX, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Let’s take a look at some of the best things you can do while you’re in town!
1. Walk Around the Carrollton Downtown Square
Address: 1100 S Elm St., Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: Walking around the Carrollton Downtown Square allows you to get a feel for the beauty and historical importance of the city. With easy access from the DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) rail line, there are plenty of options for restaurants and shops.
Despite the modern appeal, the city has done a great job keeping the old town look and feel. You can find candy, ice cream, restaurants, and antique shops. Check the city’s event schedule, and you may be able to attend a fun city-wide event or festival during your trip!

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
2. Visit the A.W Perry Homestead
Address: 1509 N. Perry Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: If you want a peek at what life was like at the turn of the 20th century, the A.W. Perry Homestead is the place to visit! A.W and Sarah Perry, pioneers from Carrollton, Ill., originally settled the farm in 1857.
The property has plenty of walking trails. Tours are available by reservation only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. This is a popular destination for professional photographers to take pictures.
Adjacent to the homestead is the 13-acre Gravely Park. Here, you’ll find walking paths, park benches, and drinking fountains. You can even walk through a 20’ gazebo that reflects the Victorian period and fits perfectly alongside the A.W. Perry House.

Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. Track Your Miles at the Nob Hill Greenbelt
Address: 1600-1602 Crooked Creek Dr, Carrollton, TX 75007
Why You Should Visit: The Nob Hill Greenbelt is a paved 7.8-mile trail that winds through parks, along with ponds and rivers, and has several playgrounds that are easily accessible. The spacious walking path provides plenty of room for biking, walking, or jogging. There are even park benches to take a seat on if you need a rest.
The trail and park are very well maintained and can be a tranquil way to start or end your day in Carrollton.
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4. Take a Hike in the Elm Fork Nature Preserve
Address: 2335 Sandy Lake Rd, Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: These 40-acres of virtually undisturbed land were given to the city in 1986. The main looping trail around the preserve is approximately a mile long, has almost no elevation gain, and is perfect for all skill levels. There are opportunities to explore more with a short loop extension and the crossover trail that cuts through the middle of the preserve loop.
While the trail is easy, it’s narrow and rocky in some spots, so it’s not wheelchair or stroller-friendly. Keep it quiet, and you can spot wildlife, but watch out for snakes and bring the bug spray to ward off mosquitos.

5. Take a Chocolate Baking Class
Address: 1626 Banbury Ln, Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: If you’re a fan of chocolate, you can join chef Zach Townsend as he shares some of his tips, tricks, and knowledge from over 25 years of experience with chocolate. You can find many fun and unique in-person and virtual chocolate classes.
Through the classes, you’ll learn about the history of chocolate, tips for making chocolate desserts, and an array of other information about chocolate and baking that you likely didn’t know. Whether you have a sweet tooth, love baking, or are looking for a special date night with a loved one, this is a great option!
6. Stock Up on Retro Treats
Address: 1106 W. Main St, Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: Blooms Candy is a former flower shop turned old-fashioned candy and soda pop shop. The shop sits on Main Street in historic downtown Carrollton. This whimsical, retro shop is great for finding stocking stuffers for your family or getting yourself a treat to enjoy while strolling around the downtown district.
While the flowers are gone, you can now find 800 different types of candy, 50 different glass bottle root beer flavors, and 400 more rare and nostalgic glass bottle sodas. If you can’t find the candy or soda you like here, it may not exist.

7. Rent a Motorcycle
Address: 1845 N Interstate 35E, Carrollton, TX 75006
Why You Should Visit: If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the area and feel the wind in your hair, renting a motorcycle is a great option. Eaglerider Rentals & Tours can set you up with a Harley-Davidson that meets your needs for up to 13 days.
However, Eaglerider Rentals & Tours does more than just rent motorcycles; it offers tour packages. These tours allow you to not only rent the Harley-Davidson of your dreams but also not have to worry about a travel itinerary or planning accommodations.
It offers self-guided tours, guided tours, and custom trips. If you enjoy riding a motorcycle and are looking for an adventure, this is a fantastic option!
Is Carrollton, TX, Worth a Visit?
Visiting Carrollton, TX, is a great way to experience Texas without the fury of activity often experienced in larger cities. Getting out and about in the suburbs of DFW, like Carrollton, can provide you with a more authentic experience of the area. Carrollton is a fantastic city that offers plenty of opportunities to make great memories and have an amazing time.
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